Warehouse Forklift Maintenance
Forklifts need a proper maintenance program to help increase the machine's lifespan and is an essential factor in allowing the machine to run effectively and safely. Completing regular forklift inspections and doing preventive maintenance regularly will help to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the machinery.
Daily Checklist
In any forklift maintenance program, the daily checklist is an important tool to have. These checklists will document any possible issues. They are required by the OSHA or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. The daily checklists could also be audited by OSHA during any routine inspection. Drivers must complete the inspection from the start of their shift. If any major problems are found, the forklift can not be used until the issue has been fixed.
Safety and Maintenance Go Hand-in-Hand
Every year around 100 individuals are injured in forklift mishaps within the USA. Statistics show that roughly 20,000 people will be seriously injured as a result of a forklift mishap. This number translates to represent 54 people per day, 7 days a week, for the whole year. Many of these mishaps could be prevented easily if the forklift had been properly maintained and serviced. In several circumstances, it may seem like a cost savings to delay or skip regular maintenance, however, these savings will pale in comparison to the cost of one mishap.
Items to be Serviced
The manufacturers owner manual would include a recommended maintenance schedule. Schedules will differ depending on each and every manufacturer and every kind of forklift. Each schedule would contain various basic things. For instance, in a combustion engine, the engine oil and the oil filter will need to be periodically replaced. Hydraulic levels must be checked also. Be sure to inspect hoses for any signs of cracking. Additional items involve the brakes, the transmission and the electrical systems of the forklift.